Morton’s Irresistible Lure

Unprecedented sophistication greets you the moment gold elevator doors open to reveal Morton’s The Steakhouse. Dimmed lights and ear-pleasing music instantly transport you out of the bustle of its Ala Moana Center location.

It’s an atmosphere that warmly invites you to luxuriate in a meal of equally sumptuous options. Plus, the restaurant’s extensive selection of wines and a staff that can readily make pairing suggestions provide an irresistible appeal for those looking to indulge. All in an affable ambiance.

To start, the Chilled Morton’s Prime Ocean Platter ($25 per person) features a variety of different seafood served with the restaurant’s house-made cocktail, horseradish and mustard mayonnaise sauces. The tray includes Maine lobster, jumbo shrimp cocktail, jumbo lump crabmeat, oysters on the half-shell and Alaskan King Crab legs. For this course, Schoniwitz recommends a pairing with champagne.

As a main course, Morton’s currently is offering a Steak and Lobster ($49.95) special that runs until Dec. 30. A grilled 6-ounce filet mignon is paired with a 5-ounce Australian cold water lobster tail. An au jus adds flavor to the already succulent filet, and the lobster tail is topped with paprika and served with drawn butter and lemon. Pinot Noir, Schoniwitz says, goes well with this combo.

Just don’t forget to save a little room for Morton’s Legendary Hot Chocolate Cake with Haagen-Dazs Vanilla Ice Cream ($14.50). The cake and molten chocolate center are both made with dark Belgian chocolate. The treat is served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. While a glass of port or even Cabernet Sauvignon will go well with chocolate, Schoniwitz recommends Bailey’s Irish Cream.

“If you’re going to totally indulge, have both,” he says.

With the holidays quickly approaching, Morton’s gift cards allow you to ensure loved ones also are able to create memorable experiences at the eatery. With every $100 worth of gift cards purchased, receive a $20 reward gift card.

The restaurant also has private boardrooms to accommodate parties.

Morton’s also will be open on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve and Day. It also will open its doors for lunch on limited Thursdays (Dec. 5, 12 and 19) and Fridays (Dec. 6, 13 and 20).

The ultimate in indulgence at Morton’s? A 27-liter bottle of Charles Krug Primat, created exclusively for the restaurant and signed by Peter Mondavi and sons. The bottle, which graces the entrance of the restaurant, serves approximately 180 glasses. The price tag: $5,203.